The smell of microwave popcorn might become all too familiar in residence halls if OU puts microFridges in every room by next fall.

Bob Hynes, director of campus and auxiliary services, told the OU Board of Trustees there could be a "unit in every room next fall."

OU began a pilot program Fall Quarter with the installation of microFridges, a microwave, freezer and refrigerator all in one unit, into five residence halls.

Sargent, MacKinnon, Biddle, Lincoln and Martzolff residents were the first students to sample the microFridges, and next year, provided OU room and board payments can cover the appliances' bids, each residence hall room will receive a unit, Hynes said.

Gordon Pettey, assistant director for campus and auxiliary services, said the current bidding process should be complete by April 30. At that time administrators will examine the options and consequences of installing the microFridges.

During the summer, OU would have to install 4,117 units, which might cause problems for students attending summer sessions and living on campus, he said.

The environmental health and safety department has approved the campus-wide use of the microFridges next fall, but administrators continue to examine the electrical capabilities of the units and the residence halls.

The appliances do not use more electricity than most appliances students already use in the residence halls, Hynes said. He said he does not expect any problems with implementation of the program.

Students using the microFridges this year received surveys about the efficiency of the appliance and clarity of the instructions.

Based on the survey, OU Housing Director Dale Tampke said the microFridges would benefit all students living on campus.

"I think it's a good thing," he said. "It's something that will meet the convenience needs of the students."

Although access to the appliances might make students consider purchasing smaller meal plans, Gene Reed, director of food service, said he does not think microFridges will hurt OU food service.

Instead, OU can use this as an opportunity to expand on the amount of microwaveable meals available at campus convenience stores, such as Shivley Corner and Bobcat Express in Nelson Commons, Reed said.

"We've done quite a bit of research on it and it hasn't affected other schools that much," he said. "The loss in revenue is offset by the gain in revenue from the other side."

Freshman Ashley Penin, who uses her microFridge frequently, said the convenience factor is one of the best aspects of the appliance.

"I really like it," she said. "They are a really convenient thing to have."

Students also would not have to purchase or rent refrigerators before making the transition to college.

"It's nice for me because I can't afford a large meal plan, but I can buy groceries," freshman Ann Wilke said.